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Ntubeni ready for Saracens battle

WP hooker Scarra Ntubeni is looking forward to testing himself in new conditions against Saracens at Allianz Park on Sunday.

Western Province hooker Scarra Ntubeni is looking forward to testing himself in new conditions against Saracens at Allianz Park on Sunday.

Ntubeni was on Monday named in a 24-man WP touring squad that will leave for London on Thursday to face the 2013/14 European and Premiership runners-up.

“It’s a great opportunity for the entire touring party,” Ntubeni told www.wprugby.com ahead of Sunday’s clash.

“It’s not often that you get a chance to play against a top European club and I’m particularly excited about playing on the artificial surface at Allianz Park – having heard so much about it.”

Ntubeni toured Europe with the Springboks at the end of last year and although he did not get any game time he still learnt plenty on the trip.

He is expecting to add to his rugby experience this time around too, but, as one just two hookers in the group, he is relishing the prospect of game time in Europe – even after a tough Currie Cup campaign.

“I haven’t played against any of these Saracens guys before, so it will be a new experience in many ways,” added Ntubeni.

“You can never stop learning and experiencing new things as a tight forward… you always want to test yourself against the best players from all over the rugby world in all kinds of conditions,” said Ntubeni.

A good crowd is expected at Allianz Park on Sunday and Ntubeni is hoping for plenty of blue and white support in North London.

“As a brand, Western Province is well supported around the rugby world and we’re expecting no less in London this weekend,” he said.

“We’re all looking forward to the trip. Some guys in the squad haven’t been to London before, so we need to squeeze in some sight-seeing, but we’re also excited to see our London-based fans and, most importantly, to give a good account of ourselves on the field on Sunday.”